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$page->title = 'Pray for Boston';
$page->date = '2013-04-22';
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?>

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<p>Do not give in to fear or hatred.</p>
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<p>Dear NRHC Family,</p>
<p>As you know, two bombs exploded near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. In an instant, the joy of completing one of the world&rsquo;s most iconic events turned to horror, shock, grief, and pain as over 150 people were injured and three were killed. Countless numbers of people have been impacted and forever changed by this senseless tragedy.</p>
<p>I am drawn to the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:5-7. Paul, well acquainted with grief and suffering, was convinced of God&rsquo;s presence and power in and above all earthly circumstances. In light of that truth, he wrote these words:</p>
<blockquote> The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.</blockquote>
<p>While our emotions certainly run high, I want to ask us all not give in to fear or hatred, but rather to pray. Let&rsquo;s come alongside the victims, their families, and the people of Boston; let&rsquo;s suffer and grieve with them in prayer. While we may never endure what they are experiencing now, we can come alongside them in prayer. Pray for healing for the wounded, peace for the families affected, and for God to bring justice and mercy in a way that point people to Him.</p>
<p>Pray also for our Christian brothers and sisters, for pastors, and for churches on the ground in Boston. God has perfectly positioned His people to love and serve the city of Boston in the name of Jesus. Pray that they would be strengthened for the task at hand and that God would use His people in Boston to extend mercy, comfort, and peace.</p>
<p>Remember, God is God; and He is good. He is still ruling and reigning, and He is with us. This is yet another reminder that this world is not our home. May we all the more long for the day King Jesus will return in triumph over all sin, darkness, and evil.</p>
<p>Let&rsquo;s join our hearts in prayer, church family. I&rsquo;m grateful for you and honored to serve as your pastor. I&rsquo;ll see you Sunday.</p>

<p>Grace and Peace,<br>
Jay</p>
